Dale Lewis
Alabama

Wood
Non-functional
14.25"w x 8.75"d x 19.25"h

About the Teapot
This piece was inspired by a 6-foot tall clock I made in 1999. The form is similar though scaled down from clock to teapot.

Artist Statement
My work speaks to a love and respect for wood. I constantly search for examples that inspire my sensitivities and allow me to exhibit my colorful imagination. Art training and years of television production experience give life and dimension to my creations. My whimsically elegant designs are influenced by natural forms, which are used as metaphors and narratives for my ideas, feelings, and philosophies. My titles become my language as they frequently play on words and phrases and express my offbeat sense of humor. I use colorful dyes, inlays, and carving to bring my pieces to life, often displaying a tongue-in-cheek comedic presence. With solid construction and silky finish, my creations become unique images that are often functional and artistically relevant.

About Dale
My formal art training began at the University of Alabama (UAB), where I received a BFA degree. In 1980 I completed an MA in Educational Media from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Further study at UAB included 18 hours of studio work and a thesis in Art Education.
After a brief stint as a technical illustrator, I became a program producer-director. Writing, scoring, designing sets, and directing was a catalyst and inspiration for my present work. In 1979, I became fascinated with wood as a material for creating art. Initially, furniture forms were my focus. While polishing my woodworking skills, I began exhibiting my work at festivals and accepting commissions part-time until I retired from UAB and pursued my art full-time.
For more than 40 years, I have created hundreds of whimsical sculptural forms. Passion for my art continues to challenge me as I search for exquisite form and compelling statements.

*Teapots that are sold must remain on display in the gallery as part of the exhibit until the show closes on September 10, 2020.  After the show closes, teapots will be carefully packed and shipped by September 26 or available for pick-up at the gallery.